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Christian Caliandro's reflections on generational conflict and artistic future

other · 2026-05-04

Christian Caliandro, an art historian and professor at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze, publishes a stream-of-consciousness essay on Artribune reflecting on generational dynamics, the state of contemporary art, and the future. Written during train journeys between Turin, Rome, Bari, and Milan in May-June 2018, the text weaves personal observations with cultural critique. Caliandro references the MAXXI museum in Rome, the artwork of Allora & Calzadilla, and Franco Angeli's 1968 painting "Corteo." He contrasts the perceived failures of older generations with the flourishing of young artists, whom he addresses in a letter. The essay touches on themes of control, participation, and the spectral nature of contemporary existence. Caliandro also promotes Artribune's newsletters and WhatsApp channel.

Key facts

  • Christian Caliandro wrote an essay published on Artribune.
  • The essay is dated May 31 and June 7, 2018.
  • Caliandro traveled from Turin to Rome, then Rome to Bari, and later to Milan.
  • He references the MAXXI museum in Rome.
  • He mentions the artwork of Allora & Calzadilla.
  • He references Franco Angeli's 1968 painting 'Corteo'.
  • Caliandro teaches at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze.
  • He is a member of the scientific committee of Symbola Foundation.
  • The essay includes a letter to a young artist.
  • Artribune offers newsletters and a WhatsApp channel.

Entities

Artists

  • Christian Caliandro
  • Allora & Calzadilla
  • Franco Angeli
  • Mario Tobino
  • Maria Rosaria Carbone
  • Nick Drake
  • Dinosaur Jr.
  • J. Mascis
  • Natascia
  • Oksana
  • Gertrude Stein
  • Andrea Pazienza

Institutions

  • Artribune
  • MAXXI
  • Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze
  • Symbola Fondazione per le Qualità italiane
  • Scuola Normale Superiore

Locations

  • Turin
  • Rome
  • Bari
  • Milan
  • Italy
  • Laterza
  • Foggia
  • Castellaneta Marina

Sources